Thursday, June 21, 2012

Family Room Mantel

Surprise, I'm working on changing the family room mantel.  I can't seem to be happy with it and am constantly re-working it.  I don't think I'll ever like it until I paint that wood.
 My starting point for this attempt will be these antique book plates that I'm going to frame.  Below are a few examples of them.  I love their nature theme and also that there are two images on each plate.  The colors are so vibrant and they were already matted. Yea!!


This is my new nature-inspired mantel.  I added turtle shells, a coral fan, and some prong horn antlers.  I also framed some more Trina Turk fabric, my attempt at modern art and a pop of color.  The only thing that remains from the previous mantel are the iron window grates.  I painted them citrine to match the draperies.  They provide a backdrop and fill the large space.




















So what do you think?  I'm not thrilled with this mantel either.  You know how you just know when something works?  It's not working.  Back to the drawing board.  Suggestions friends?

"I believe in doing the thing you feel is right -
 if it looks right, it is right." Dorothy Draper

 

Kathy

4 comments:

  1. It's hard to see how the wood looks with the brick, but I think it might only need staining a darker color that coordinates with the undertones a bit better. i'm loving the bookplates...are the y something you already had.
    CTD

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  2. I think mantles are hard to decorate. I solved our problems and just took the mantle down. :) Love your summer vignette and especially the old bookplates. Maybe you could whitewash the old brick and mantle. Just thinking. :)

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  3. Hi Kathy, I think your mantel is beautiful! I love the book plates and the turtle shells are fabulous.

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  4. I was looking for turtle shells and modern art and am glad I found your blog! :) now i know they make a good couple! :)

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